Social media groups, especially those aimed at expats, have been awash with questions about applying for a certificate for special family leave in the context of limiting the spread of the coronavirus epidemic. The government has reacted by issuing clarification on several points, as well as answering some FAQs.

With schools and crèches closing down as of Monday 16 March, many working parents will be forced to stay at home to look after their children. To allow them to do this, the government has set up a special form for parents who have no other childcare options--the government has emphasised that “childcare should not be provided by a vulnerable person or a member of a group at risk” (the elderly or people with certain pre-existing medical conditions).

Here are the answers to a few of the main questions being asked.

1. There is no need to indicate the start and end dates on the form. The parent taking the leave should inform their employer of the days (or half days) that they will take as family leave. It is then up to the employer to inform the social security agencies of the specific days being taken.
2. One copy of the completed and signed form should be sent to the Caisse Nationale de Santé, “Indemnités pécuniaires”, L-2980 Luxembourg. The other to the employer.
3. Parents (including those who are divorced) can alternate the leave but cannot take it simultaneously. Both parents should complete the form and inform their employers of the days, or half days, they are taking. For instance, one parent could take off specific days of the week and work on the alternate days when the other parent takes the leave. Or, one parent could take special leave in the mornings and the other parent the afternoons.
4. The family leave can be interrupted and restarted at any time without having to fill out a new form. Employees just have to inform their employer of the timing of the end and start dates.
5. The leave is only applicable for parents of children under the age of 13. Exceptions are made for a child over 13 who is hospitalised (limited to 5 days). The government is also drawing up special measures for parents of disabled or special needs children.
6. Only parents who are in the Luxembourg social security scheme, which includes many non-resident cross-border workers, can apply for the family leave.
7. The form can be downloaded here.

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